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The Middle-Brook Regional Health Commission is reporting that a bat found in a South Bound Brook home on Monday tested positive for rabies.

While only a small percentage of bats are known to carry the rabies virus, this incident should serve as an important reminder that bats found in the home may be a hazard, according to a news release from the commission. In fact, most human cases of rabies in this country are a result of exposure to a rabid bat. Rabies, a neurological disease, is almost 100 percent preventable. However, rabies is nearly always fatal once symptoms have developed so prompt action is necessary to prevent rabies.

Exposure to rabies from a bat is typically from a bite. However, the wounds from a bat bite tend to be small and may go unnoticed. If you have been sleeping in the same room with a bat or are unsure if you were exposed to a bat it is very important that the bat be caught and tested for rabies. If you find a bat in your home call your local police department and health department for guidance. Do not open a window and release the bat. The bat should be located, captured, and in most cases, tested for rabies. Medical consultation with a physician may also be warranted to determine if rabies treatment is necessary. Finally, do not forget about your pets. It is important to make sure that all dogs and cats are vaccinated against rabies and that their vaccinations are up to date.

The Middle-Brook Regional Health Commission, serving Bound Brook, Green Brook, South Bound Brook, Warren and Watchung, has witnessed an increase in bat exposures this year. If you have questions about bats and rabies contact your local health department immediately.